Did You Know About Cunard Afternoon Tea?

If you are a fan of luxury cruising and all things British, you will want to know more about the ever-popular Cunard afternoon tea service. Offered every afternoon between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m., Cunard’s afternoon tea is served in the Queen’s Room, a grand ballroom with sophisticated and comfortable design and furnishings. Depending on the weather, tea may also be served in the King’s Court buffet. While some may think afternoon tea is only just a mid-afternoon meal with light sandwiches, cakes and tea, it is truly a unique culinary event and Cunard fully embraces this.

Afternoon tea has many traditions and romantic associations, plus particular etiquette that is expected during tea time. While tea drinking has been recorded for thousands of years in various cultures, Cunard afternoon tea is specifically tied to British heritage in origin and fulfillment. Afternoon tea was introduced in early Victorian times when most households ate only two meals per day – one in the morning and the other in the early evening. According to history, the Duchess of Bedford would feel fatigue around 4:00 p.m. in the afternoon and would request sandwiches, cookies or a muffin to hold her over until dinner. Soon after, invitation to her aristocrat friends began going out and the trend was quickly set.

So what can you expect during this afternoon escape? Here are some Cunard tips to help:

1. Tea and more tea!

It will come as no surprise to you that a lot of tea is served each day onboard Cunard. The cruise line’s special relationship with Twinings Tea brand ensures guests have an abundant range of flavored teas to choose from. Guests are served by impeccably dressed, white-gloved waiters who truly cater to the desires of each guest. Plus, the cost of Cunard afternoon tea is already included in your cruise fare so drink to your heart’s desire.

2. Delicious Finger Sandwiches.

Did you know proper afternoon tea etiquette calls for guests to be served finger sandwiches before any sweets? On Cunard, you will have the option to enjoy a range of finger sandwiches popular at tea time such as egg, ham, tomato, chicken, salmon, and of course, cucumber. All sandwiches are served crustless on white or brown bread. Looking for a specific sandwich combination? Ask a Cunard waiter and he or she will have one prepared for you!

3. Time for Sweets!

Next, it is time to devour delectable sweets including freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves on the side. There are also a wide variety of cakes and pastries served. Options to consider include banana cake, profiteroles, fruit cake, fruit tarts, and éclairs.

4. Seconds (or thirds), anyone?

Tea time isn’t over until everyone has been asked whether they would like multiple courses of tea, sandwiches and sweets. Why not take advantage of this delicious menu in order to keep you going until dinnertime?

In addition to drinking Afternoon Tea in the Queen’s Room, the company also offers guests the option to purchase Cunard all inclusive drinks packages such as the soft drinks package, the coffee card, and wine tasting packages.

If you are ready to enjoy this British tradition aboard a luxury cruise liner, ask a www.CruiseExperts.com agent which itinerary may work best for your travel desires. . Visit www.CruiseExperts.com or contact us directly at 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784) to learn more. And, don’t forget to like us on Facebook and join our InnerCircle for exclusive offers and cruise news you can use! Also, check out our new Resource Center, where you can receive expert knowledge from us before your next cruise or cruisetour!

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